CSO The Elton John Experience - program 02-09-24 by Charlotte Symphony Orchestra

DIGITAL PROGRAM BOOK

February 9 & 1O 7:30 pm | Knight Theater

starring Craig A. Meyer and The Rocket Band Christopher James Lees conductor

charlottesymphony.org

CONTENTS

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WHAT’S INSIDE... A Message from the President & CEO 3 Our New Music Director 4 Concert Program 7 Artist Biographies 8 2023/24 Musician Roster 16 About the CSO 19 Annual Fund Donors 20 Corporate & Foundation Sponsors 26 Infusion Fund 29 Board of Directors & Trustees 30 Administration 31

join the musical dialogue What did you think of the performance?

@cltsymphony #cltsymphony

WELCOME

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Welcome to Your CSO! Welcome to the Symphony! We’re delighted to have you with us this month for an exciting lineup of concerts both showcasing the familiar and offering the chance for new discoveries. Don’t miss Remember When Rock Was Young, a concert featuring your favorite hits from the legendary Sir Elton John. We’re also thrilled to welcome guest conductor Keitaro Harada, who will lead your CSO in Mozart’s “Jupiter” Symphony and Wieniawski’s Concerto for Violin No. 2, featuring violinist Francisco Fullana. As part of our observance of Black History Month, join us for Saint-Georges’ Sword & Bow, a family-friendly concert delving into the remarkable story of Joseph Bologne, an accomplished violinist, conductor, composer, and fencer — and the first classical composer of African descent to attain widespread acclaim in European music. Throughout this special month, our spotlight will extend to the many contributions of Black composers and artists in orchestral music. Visit our website or follow us on social media, where we’ll share notable performances, delve into the history of Black pioneers in classical music, and celebrate the composers and artists of today who are enriching the orchestral music scene and inspiring countless future musicians. Looking towards our future musicians and music enthusiasts, I’m proud to share that our “One Musical Family” concerts in January brought over 3,000 4th and 5th-graders to the Belk Theater to experience the magic of live classical music — many for the first time. We are now preparing to welcome another 7,000 students in March. Education remains a cornerstone for us, and we’re committed to bringing the joy of live music to young audiences. For our subscribers, please keep an eye out for a special offer in the mail this month inviting you to renew your subscription for the 2024–25 season early — at 2023–24 prices! — and receive an exclusive gift. With the arrival of Music Director Kwamé Ryan next season, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Thank you for your continued support. Enjoy the concert!

David Fisk President & CEO

OUR NEW MUSIC DIRECTOR

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ANNOUNCING THE CHARLOTTE SYMPHONY’S NEXT MUSIC DIRECTOR

We are thrilled to announce that Kwamé Ryan, hailed as a “dynamic conductor” by The Baltimore Sun, will assume the role of your Charlotte Symphony’s 12th Music Director, beginning in 2024–25, ushering in a new era for the Orchestra’s 93rd season. “On my very first visit to Charlotte, I felt instantly connected with the dynamic energy of the city and then profoundly inspired by the wonderful musicians of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra … I very much look forward to discovering how this exciting new partnership can enrich the orchestra’s legacy and the cultural fabric of Charlotte.” – Music Director Designate Kwamé Ryan Born in Canada and raised on the Caribbean island of Trinidad, Kwamé Ryan discovered his passion for conducting at the age of nine. He studied Musicology at Cambridge University and trained in conducting under the guidance of renowned composer/conductor Peter Eötvös. An active guest conductor, Ryan has led orchestras across the United States, UK, and Germany. In the fall of 2023, Ryan conducted the world premiere of Jake Heggie’s Intelligence at Houston Grand Opera, and in 2024, he makes his debut with Opera Theatre of St. Louis and the New York Philharmonic.

OUR NEW MUSIC DIRECTOR (continued)

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When not on the podium, Ryan dedicates his time to educational and community engagement initiatives. He has previously served as Musical Director of the National Youth Orchestra of France and as Director of the Academy for the Performing Arts at the University of Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, Ryan is the host of “8 Minute Idea,” a podcast in which he offers insights, tools, and life hacks. “As a dynamic leader who understands the full potential of the relationship between an orchestra and its community, Kwamé will undoubtedly deepen the Charlotte Symphony’s service to Charlotte and the region, and, with his passion for music education, bring extraordinary, powerful music-making to a wider audience of all ages.” – President & CEO David Fisk

Ryan’s selection was unanimous by the Music Director Search Committee, comprised of Charlotte Symphony musicians, staff, and members of the Board of Directors. “From the outset, there was an incredible chemistry between Kwamé Ryan and the musicians which created an atmosphere of collaboration and inspiration. Kwamé’s dynamic performances, as well as his ability to connect with audiences in a meaningful way, truly distinguished him. We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional conductor to Charlotte!” – Bassist Jeffrey Ferdon and Principal Violist Ben Geller, who served on the Music Director Search Committee Kwamé Ryan will return to Charlotte this spring to conduct the Orchestra in two performances of Wang Jie’s Symphonic Overture “America, the Beautiful,” Brahms’s Symphony No. 1, and Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme, April 5–6.

Your Charlotte Symphony Experience Whether you’re attending your first Symphony performance, or you’re a longtime subscriber, we’d like to extend to you a warm and inclusive welcome! Below is some helpful information to ensure you make the most of your Charlotte Symphony experience.

What should I wear? The Charlotte Symphony has no specific dress code. We encourage you to be comfortable and come as yourself in a style of your choice.

When do I applaud? Audiences applaud to welcome the concertmaster, conductor, and featured artists onstage. Some works may have several sections, or movements, separated by a brief silent pause. It is tradition to hold applause until the last movement. If you are unsure, wait for the conductor to face the audience. But if you feel truly inspired, do not be afraid to applaud!

Can I take photos? Certainly! We welcome and encourage you to capture and share photos before and after the concert, as well as during intermission. Feel free to use your cell phone for photography without flash during the performance, but please refrain from video or audio recording.

CONCERT PROGR AM

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REMEMBER WHEN ROCK WAS YOUNG THE ELTON JOHN EXPERIENCE Friday, February 9, 2024, at 7:30 pm Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 7:30 pm Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts Christopher James Lees, conductor Craig A. Meyer, piano & vocals ACT I Bitch Is Back Philadelphia Freedom Goodbye Yellow Brick Road Bennie & the Jets Broadway Suite Circle of Life Written in the Stars Electricity Can You Feel The Love Tonight? Tiny Dancer Honky Cat Take Me To The Pilot ACT II Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding Don’t Go Breaking My Heart Candle in the Wind Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds/Pinball Wizard Your Song Crocodile Rock Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me THE ROCKET BAND Doug Jacobs, guitar Trygve Myers, bass Pat Strawser, keyboards Mark Carbone, drums

KG Fletcher, vocals Shawn Megorden, vocals Jevares Myrick, vocals

concert duration: approx. 2 hours, including one 20-minute intermission.

CONDUCTOR BIO

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Christopher James Lees resident conductor

Emerging American conductor Christopher James Lees brings passionate and nuanced orchestral performances to the stage, a fierce commitment to contemporary music, and a natural charisma to audiences all around the world. In 2018, Mr. Lees began an appointment as Resident Conductor of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and Principal Conductor of the Charlotte Symphony Youth Orchestra. In addition to the more than 50 annual concert appearances with the CSO, he has annually stepped in to conduct Subscription Classical performances on five occasions, including two gala concerts with legendary artists and Grammy Award winners Branford Marsalis and Rhiannon Giddens, respectively. An active guest conductor, Mr. Lees has returned for performances with the Los Angeles and Rochester Philharmonics, the Houston, Detroit, Milwaukee, North Carolina, Portland, and Flint Symphonies, and conducted debuts with the New York Philharmonic, and New World, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Toledo, and Vermont Symphonies. Additional engagements have taken him to the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Orchestra de Chambre de Paris, Aspen Philharmonic Orchestra, Cabrillo Festival Orchestra, and at the Music in the Mountains Festival & Festival Internacional de Inverno de Campos do Jordão in Brazil. Only the second American Gustavo Dudamel Conducting Fellow with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Mr. Lees made his debut with the orchestra in April 2013 and returned for concerts in February 2015. With the New York Philharmonic, St. Louis & Atlanta Symphonies, among others, Mr. Lees has served as a assistant conductor for the world’s leading conductors, including: Gustavo Dudamel, Paavo Järvi, Leonard Slatkin, David Robertson, Robert Spano, Marin Alsop, Pablo Heras-Casado, Stéphane Denève, Susanna Mälkki, and Nicholas McGegan. (continued next page)

CONDUCTOR BIO (continued)

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After two summers of study with Robert Spano at the Aspen Music Festival, Mr. Lees was named winner of both the 2011 James Conlon Conducting Prize and the 2012 Aspen Conducting Prizes, respectively. In 2013, Mr. Lees returned for a third summer as assistant conductor for the Aspen Music Festival and School. An active pianist, and equally comfortable in the opera pit, Mr. Lees has served as Music Director or Assistant Conductor for a wide array of operas: Aida (Atlanta Symphony), Peter Grimes & John Harbison's The Great Gatsby (Aspen Opera Theatre Center), Louis Andriessen's De Materie, and Philip Glass' the CIVIL warS (Los Angeles Philharmonic), Don Giovanni & Mark Adamo's Little Women, (University of Michigan Opera Theatre), and Nino Rota’s Il Capello di paglia di Firenze (AJ Fletcher Opera Institute). A recipient of a Career Assistance Grant from the Solti Foundation US, Mr. Lees was also chosen for showcase on the Bruno Walter Memorial Foundation National Conductor Preview, hosted by the League of American Orchestras and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. A dedicated advocate for music of our time, Mr. Lees has premiered more than one hundred fifty new works by a diverse range of composers, and collaborated closely with Pulitzer Prize winners John Adams, William Bolcom, John Corigliano, Jennifer Higdon, Joseph Schwantner, Steven Stucky, Caroline Shaw, Roger Reynolds, and Julia Wolfe. An equally passionate advocate for music education, Mr. Lees has brought inspirational energy to student orchestras across the country, from the Colburn School to the Shepherd School at Rice University and the New England Conservatory. A native of Washington, D.C., Mr. Lees holds bachelors and master's degrees from the University of Michigan, and has studied conducting with Larry Rachleff and Robert Spano, as well as having participated in masterclasses with Lorin Maazel, Michael Tilson Thomas, Gustav Meier, and Jorma Panula. When not performing, Mr. Lees can be found riding roller coasters with his eight-year old son, reading the stack of books by his nightstand, or training for the Boston Marathon in April 2024.

GUEST ARTIST BIOS

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Craig A Meyer piano & vocals

Craig A Meyer has traversed all four corners of the entertainment industry, making strong impressions in theatre, film, television and music. On Broadway, Meyer created the role of Clinton Badger in MGM’s classic Meet Me In St Louis and toured nationally in Cats as Skimbleshanks, The Red Caboose in Starlight Express, and Mike Nulty in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Regionally, he has starred in Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris (Man 2), Forever Plaid (Frankie), A Class Act (Lehman Engel), Crazy For You (Bobby Child), 42nd Street (Billy Lawlor), The All Night Strut and the West Coast Premiere of The Thing About Men (Man). Television and film appearances include guest-starring roles on “Necessary Roughness”, “Will & Grace”, “Good Morning Miami”, “Family Law”, “General Hospital”, and “Fernwood 2nite” as well as working with Alan Menken on Disney’s Aladdin, and with Tim Rice and Elton John on The Lion King. Film credits include Leatherheads with George Clooney and Renee Zellweger, Joyful Noise with Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah, and Identity Thief with Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy. In music, Meyer has toured internationally and recorded with music legends Barry Manilow and Frankie Valli. Throughout Meyer’s busy career, he was repeatedly approached about his striking resemblance to Elton John and his uncanny ability to sound like the rock and roll legend. Meyer was eventually persuaded to expand his repertoire and began impersonating Sir Elton John. Today, he is considered to be the best Elton John tribute artist in the market whose strong vocals, striking resemblance and amazing talent on the piano has audiences everywhere remembering when rock was young. A celebration of the character, costumes and charisma of the famed pianist and singer, Meyer’s fully produced show has captivated audiences throughout the United States and abroad. (continued next page)

GUEST ARTIST BIOS (continued)

AlmostEltonJohn.com @almosteltonjohn @almosteltonjohn

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GUEST ARTIST BIOS (continued)

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Mark Carbone drums

Mark Carbone, a drummer from Atlanta, has been influenced by a wide range of genres, including Jazz, Rock, R&B, and Americana. His diverse musical interests have led to collaborations with artists like Dale Watson, Brent Hinds of Mastodon, and Ruby Velle & the Soulphonics. Carbone has performed nationally and internationally, with favorite venues including Atlanta's Tabernacle and New York's Blue Note. His drumming has appeared on TV shows such as "Suits," "The Originals," and "Iconoclasts," and on podcasts like "Freakonomics." When not performing, Mark enjoys spending time with his wife and two young sons in Atlanta.

KG Fletcher vocals

“The Singing Author,” KG Fletcher, lives in her very own frat house in Atlanta, GA with her husband Ladd and three sons. As a singer/songwriter she became a recipient of the “Airplay International Award” for “Best New Artist” showcasing original songs at The Bluebird Café in Nashville, TN. She earned her BFA in theater at Valdosta State University, and has traveled the world professionally as a singer/actress. KG is a hopeless romantic. When she’s not writing or on the road singing, she’s probably at home day dreaming about her swoony book boyfriends, or arranging a yummy charcuterie board while sipping red wine and listening to Frank Sinatra.

(bios continued next page)

GUEST ARTIST BIOS (continued)

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Douglas Jacobs guitar

Douglas Jacobs is an Atlanta-based guitarist/songwriter. Playing guitar since an early age and, though mostly a selftaught musician, Douglas did attend the famed Musicians Institute in Hollywood CA where he studied composition. Douglas has been involved in writing and producing music since the early 90’s. During that time, he worked with many Atlanta notables including Tim Smith (Jellyfish, Sheryl Crow) and Scott Patton (Sugarland, Jennifer Nettles). Douglas is well versed in many musical styles including funk, heavy metal, country, pop, classical and blues. Aside from guitar, he also plays mandolin, drums, bass guitar, and lap steel. Lately branching out, he has recently penned an original stage production and is currently working on his first novel.

Shawn Megorden vocals

Shawn Megorden is thrilled to be singing with Almost Elton John! She lives in Carrollton GA. with her husband Kent, two children & two grandchildren. You can download her album Cover Girl on Spotify and Apple Music. National tours; Fran - Promises Promises, Lead singer - American Jukebox and Heart Strings 101. Grizabella - CATS, Lead singer - Leader of the Pack, Lead vocalist - Smokey Joe's Café, Erma - Anything Goes, Ramona - Della’s Diner, Lead vocalist - Johnny Mercer, Soprano - South City Voices, Featured vocalist with The Atlanta Pops. When not performing, she teaches dance and musical Theatre at Carrollton Center for the Arts.

(bios continued next page)

GUEST ARTIST BIOS (continued)

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Trygve Myers bass

Trygve Myers, a versatile touring and session bassist hailing from Atlanta, GA, is not only a skilled musician but also an accomplished writer and artist. As a North Georgia University bass performance graduate, Trygve gained national recognition as part of the "Fiddleheads" on America's Got Talent, showcasing their unique bluegrass renditions of pop covers. His impressive resume includes touring with renowned acts like Sam Burchfield, Noah Gundersen, David Lee Murphy, and Noah Guthrie, solidifying his presence in the music industry.

Jevares C. Myrick vocals

Jevares Myrick is a New York-based Broadway Actor and Composer in The Book of Mormon on Broadway. He has recently composed/orchestrated “6888: The Musical”, “Illa/ Once Upon A Rhyme”, “Greenwood,” “Beautiful Hair,” “The New Girl,” “The Earth Remembers.” BROADWAY AND NATIONAL TOUR CREDITS include The Book of Mormon Latter Day and Jumamosi Tours. REGIONAL THEATRE CREDITS: Smokey Joe's Café, All Night Strut, Hairspray, Little Shop of Horrors, Grease, Ragtime, Sweet Charity, Aint Misbehavin’, Sophisticated Ladies, and many more. TELEVISION/FILM CREDITS: The Originals. He's a Five-time Suzi Bass Award Nominee (2 wins). Ovation Award recipient. Jevares has been featured on BroadwayWorld.com and Playbill.com.

(bios continued next page)

GUEST ARTIST BIOS (continued)

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Pat Strawser keyboards

Pat began his music education in Athens, Georgia, with classical piano lessons in 1985. The vibrant music scene of Athens inspired him start his first band, Volaré, in 1993. Volaré blended an unique mix of fusion, progressive rock, and jazz, and released The Uncertainty Principle in 1997, achieving critical acclaim with an international audience. Since then he’s worked with Otis Redding, Jr., John Berry, Davis Causey, Mania: The ABBA Tribute, Electric Avenue: The 80’s MTV Experience, and the progressive rock group French TV. He is also a prolific songwriter and composer, with seven fulllength albums, including four CDs. His music is on Bandcamp, YouTube, and Spotify.

MUSICIAN ROSTER

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YOUR CHARLOTTE SYMPHONY Kwamé Ryan, Music Director Designate Christopher James Lees, Resident Conductor Christopher Warren-Green, Conductor Laureate FIRST VIOLINS Calin Ovidiu Lupanu, Concertmaster The Catherine & Wilton Connor Chair Joseph Meyer, Associate Concertmaster Kari Giles, Assistant Concertmaster Susan Blumberg°° Jane Hart Brendle Cynthia Burton Ayako Gamo David Horak† Lenora Leggatt Jenny Topilow Dustin Wilkes-Kim Hanna Zhdan SECOND VIOLINS Oliver Kot, Principal The Wolfgang Roth Chair Kathleen Jarrell, Assistant Principal The Pepsi-Cola Foundation of Charlotte Chair Carlos Tarazona° Monica Boboc Martha Geissler Sakira Harley Tatiana Karpova Ellyn Stuart VIOLAS Benjamin Geller, Principal The Zoe Bunten Merrill Principal Viola Chair Kirsten Swanson, Acting Asst. Principal† Ellen Ferdon Cynthia Frank Wenlong Huang Viara Stefanova Ning Zhao CELLOS Jonathan Lewis, Principal The Kate Whitner McKay Principal Cello Chair Allison Drenkow, Acting Asst. Principal Alan Black, Principal Emeritus* Marlene Ballena Jeremy Lamb Amy Sunyoung Lee Sarah Markle Oksana McCarthy†

DOUBLE BASSES Kurt Riecken, Principal* Jason McNeel, Acting Principal Judson Baines, Assistant Principal* Justin Cheesman, Acting Asst. Principal Jeffrey Ferdon Luis Primera† FLUTES Victor Wang, Principal The Blumenthal Foundation Chair Amy Orsinger Whitehead Erinn Frechette PICCOLO Erinn Frechette OBOES Erica Cice, Acting Principal The Leo B. Driehuys Chair‡ Teil Taliesin† Terry Maskin ENGLISH HORN Terry Maskin CLARINETS Taylor Marino, Principal The Gary H. & Carolyn M. Bechtel Chair Samuel Sparrow Allan Rosenfeld E♭ CLARINET Samuel Sparrow BASS CLARINET Allan Rosenfeld BASSOONS Joseph Merchant, Principal Joshua Hood Nicholas Ritter CONTRABASSOON Nicholas Ritter

MUSICIAN ROSTER (continued) HORNS Byron Johns, Principal The Mr. & Mrs. William H. Van Every Chair Andrew Fierova Philip Brindise† The Robert E. Rydel, Jr. Third Horn Chair Richard Goldfaden Andrew Merideth† TRUMPETS Alex Wilborn, Principal The Betty J. Livingstone Chair Jonathan Kaplan Gabriel Slesinger, Associate Principal The Marcus T. Hickman Chair TROMBONES John Bartlett, Principal Thomas Burge

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TIMPANI Jacob Lipham, Principal The Robert Haywood Morrison Chair PERCUSSION Brice Burton, Principal HARP Andrea Mumm Trammell, Principal The Dr. Billy Graham Chair

This roster lists the full-time members of the Charlotte Symphony. The number and seating of musicians onstage varies depending on the piece being performed. ° Non-revolving position °° Alternates between first and second violins

BASS TROMBONE Scott Hartman, Principal

† Acting member of the Charlotte Symphony

TUBA Colin Benton, Principal The Governor James G. Martin Chair

‡ Funded by The Symphony Guild of Charlotte, Inc. * On leave

ARTISTIC OPERATIONS Michael Reichman, VP of Artistic Operations & General Manager Carrie Graham, Senior Director of Artistic Planning Tim Pappas, Director of Operations Nixon Bustos, Principal Music Librarian Emily Schaub, Assistant Music Librarian Erin Eady, Personnel Manager Claire Beiter, Operations Coordinator John Jarrell, Stage Manager

The Charlotte Symphony is a proud member of the League of American Ochestras.

THE 1OO

ANNIVERSARY

March 1 & 2 7:30 pm | Belk Theater Thomas Wilkins guest conductor Michelle Cann piano Featuring An American in Paris and works by Florence Price and Maurice Ravel

704.972.2OOO | charlottesymphony.org

ABOUT THE CSO

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One of the premier music organizations in the Southeastern United States and the oldest operating symphony orchestra in the Carolinas, the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (CSO) connects with more than 100,000 music lovers each year through its lively season of concerts, broadcasts, community events, and robust educational programs. The CSO is committed to its mission of uplifting, entertaining, and educating the diverse communities of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and beyond through exceptional musical experiences. The Charlotte Symphony upholds the highest artistic integrity and takes bold steps to engage with its community through music. Its 65 professional, full-time musicians perform throughout the region — from community parks and breweries, to places of worship and senior care centers — and offer significant educational support, aimed at serving the underresourced areas of our community. The Charlotte Symphony is deeply committed to the notion that music, accessible to all and experienced in its many forms, enriches and unifies our community. The CSO believes in equity and inclusion and strives to be an industry leader in imaginative, relevant programming by intentionally seeking out women conductors, underrepresented in our industry, and conductors, composers, and guest artists of color. Founded in 1932, the Charlotte Symphony plays a leading cultural role in the Charlotte area and serves the community as a civic leader, reflecting and uniting our region through the transformative power of live music.

OUR MISSION The Charlotte Symphony uplifts, entertains, and educates the diverse communities of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and beyond through exceptional musical experiences.

OUR VISION Reaching out through the transformative power of live music, the Charlotte Symphony will be a civic leader, reflecting and uniting our region.

For more information, visit us online at

charlottesymphony.org

SUPPORTERS

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We gratefully acknowledge these generous donors to the Charlotte Symphony Annual Fund. This list reflects gifts received between July 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023

BENEFACTOR CIRCLE $100,000+ Catherine & Wilton Connor*

Douglas Young

$50,000 – $99,999 J. Porter & Victoria Durham Jane & Hugh McColl*

Patricia & Thrus Morton

$25,000 – $49,999 Anonymous Joan & Mick Ankrom Ruth & Richard Ault Dr. Milton & Arlene Berkman Philanthropic Fund Judith & Mark Brodsky Roberta H. Cochran Jean & Dick Cornwell Linda & Bill Farthing Karen Fox

Maria & John Huson Richard Krumdieck Jacqueline B. Mars Patrick J. O'Leary Richard J. Osborne Debbie & Pat Phillips Kathy & Paul Reichs Carolyn Shaw Andromeda & John Williams

$15,000 – $24,999 Anonymous (2) Melissa & Daren Anderson Nicola & Emanuel Clark Ralph S. Grier Mary & Michael Lamach Betty P. & Jeffrey J. Lee

DeDe & Alex McKinnon Ulrike & Alex Miles Robert Norville Judy & Derek Raghavan Sherry & Thomas Skains Sienne & Adam Taylor

$10,000 – $14,999 Anonymous (3) Joye D. Blount & Jessie J. Knight Jr. Katharine & Frank Bragg Mr. & Mrs. R. Alfred Brand III Lynne & Colby Cathey Margarita & Nick Clements Jeanie & Tom Cottingham Lisa & Carlos Evans Robin & Christoph Feddersen Caren & Charles Gale Janet M. Haack Susan & Chris Kearney Ginger Kelly

Ms. Nina Lesavoy Laura & Perry Poole Ann & Fritz Rehkopf Kelli & Michael Richardson Mrs. Rosalind S. Richardson Pat Rodgers Amanda & Corey Rogers Marjorie Moses Schwab Melinda & David Snyder Drs. Jennifer Sullivan & Matthew Sullivan Mary Claire & Dan Wall Jill & Kevin Walker Lisa & Richard Worf

* The Charlotte Symphony recognizes donors of exceptional generosity whose cumulative giving to the CSO exceeds $1 million with the designation of Music Director Society.

SUPPORTERS (continued) VIRTUOSO CIRCLE $5,000 – $9,999 Wedge & Debbie Abels Howard P. Adams & Carol B. McPhee Jeannette & Francisco Alvarado Philipp J. Bischoff & Dawn Beatty Katrice & Steve Boland Mary & Charles Bowman Nancy Brand & Bill Freeman Barbara & Twig Branch Robin & William Branstrom Katherine & Thomas Bunn Shirley & Michael Butterworth Mr. & Mrs. Keith Cockrell Tammy & Malcomb Coley Morgan & Brain Cromwell Denise & Peter DeMaio Donna & Alvaro de Molina Mary Anne Dickson Peggy & Richard Dreher Mary & Robert Engel Heather & Thomas Finke David J.L. Fisk & Anne O'Byrne Joan & Parker Foley Carol & Ron Follmer Eileen Friars & Scott Pyle Patty & Alex Funderburg Dr. Robert A. Gaines & Toni Burke Sarah & Frank Gentry Laurie & Barry Guy James & Rebecca Hovis Shirley & Bob Ivey Chris Jensen Page & Ed Kizer Hartmut & Irene Kossack Vivian & Robert Lamb Anna & Lazlo Littmann Zaydee López-Ibáňez Tanya & Steve Makris Leslie & Michael Marsicano Susanne & Bill McGuire Mr. & Mrs. Paul McIntosh Susan & Loy McKeithen Mrs. Sandra Levine Dick Metzler Chuck Miller & Marcy Thailer Elizabeth & Jay Monge Mr. & Mrs. Brian T. Moynihan Holly & Jason Norvell Kim & Torsten Pilz Emily & Nima Pirzadeh Nancy & Charlie Robson Sara Garcés Roselli & Dan Roselli Bette Roth Ylida & Bert Scott Laura & Michael Schulte

page 21 Susan & Donald Sherrill Glenn Sherrill, Jr In honor of Robin Branstom Mr. & Mrs. Harley F. Shuford, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Pope A. Shuford Nancy E. Simpson Lori & Eric Sklut Kevin Taylor Chris & Jim Teat Judith & Gary Toman Mr. & Mrs. C.L. Trenkelbach Suzie & Nick Trivisonno In Memory of Tess Verbesey Floyd Wisner & Glenda Colman Sidney & Bobby Youngs Joan Zimmerman Abby & Albert Zue

$3,500 – $4,999 Anonymous Mr. James Biddlecome, in Loving Memory of Bernadette Zirkuli Biddlecome Si & Michael Blake Ms. Judith Carpenter Sally & Derick Close Mary & Phil Delk H. Clay Furches Leigh & Watts Humphrey David S. Jacobsen Richard I. McHenry & Cynthia L. Caldwell Arrington & Burch Mixon Courtney Reichs Mixon Linda & Tony Pace Marsha & Robert L. Stickler Kathleen & Daniel Troy Karen & Ed Whitener George McLendon & Carol Quillen

$2,500 – $3,499 Anonymous Julian Andretta Merilyn & Craig Baldwin Mrs. Harriet B. Barnhardt Bill & Georgia Belk Tiffany & Jason Bernd Jan & Bob Busch Cathy Bessant & John Clay Mr. & Mrs. Alan Blumenthal Amy & Philip Blumenthal Dr. & Mrs. O. Robert Boehm Ann Thomas Colley Dorothy & Mike Connor Melissa Cornwell Deborah J. Cox & Bob Szymkiewicz Alfred & Amy Dawson

(continued next page)

SUPPORTERS (continued) $2,500 – $3,499 (continued) Chris & Elizabeth Daly In Memory of Betty Haggarty Peter De Arcangelis Cheryl DeMaio Peggy & Charles Dickerson Timothy & Kara Gallagher Harvey & Cindy Gannt Todd & Andrea Griffith Mr. Billy L. Gerhart, in memory of Judith Gerhart Mariam Abdul Hamid Ivan Hinrichs Brian & Juliet Hirsch Christy & Ben Hume Fran & Greg Hyde Jim & Peggy Hynes Bruce & Martha Karsh Ginger Kemp Mr. & Mrs. Luke Kissam Dr. & Mrs. Christ A. Koconis Meghan & Luis Lluberas James Lynch Dottie & Jim Martin Rob Roy McGregor Dee Dee McKay Diane & Aderito Morais Joan Morgan Celene & Marc Oken Dr. Reta R. Phifer Mr. Vincent Phillips & Mr. Paul Pope Kathleen D. Prokay Mr. & Mrs. Robert R. Rollins, Jr. Dr. Mahesh Sardesai Paulette Sherrill George & Tricia Sistrunk Emily & Zach Smith Morris & Patricia Spearman Elizabeth Connor Stewart Dottie Stowe in loving memory of Dickson Stowe Dr. Mark R. Swanson Drs. Chris & Lillian Teigland Eric & Annette Telljohann In Memory of Dr. Chandler Thompson Dr. John A. Thompson, Jr. & Dr. Lee Rocamora Dr. Cynthia H. Tyson Mindy & Don Upton Paul & Susan Vadnais Bill & Rita Vandiver Dr. Shante Williams Steph & Gemo Yesil

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PATRON CIRCLE $1,500 – $2,499 Anonymous Marcia Adams Ross & Michele Annable Clay & Denise Armbrister Dan & Barbara Austell Dianne & Brian Bailey Sharon Baker & Peter Moore Mr. & Mrs. Taylor Batten Erskine & Crandall Bowles Kelly & Jackie Brown Sarah & Marco Carbone Ms. Catherine P. Carstarphen Mr. Brent Clevenger Neil & Claire Cotty Elizabeth Betty Eaton William & Patricia Gorelick Family Foundation Angela & Michael Helms Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin F. Hill, Jr. Mr. James Howell & Mrs. Deanna Kelly Joan Irwin Gene & Helen Katz Christopher James Lees Stacy & Adam Marino Anna Marriott Ms. Rosemarie Marshall & Mr. Lee Wilkins Mr. Glenn Mincey & Mrs. Macie Mincey Eleanor W. Neal Caroline Olzinski Pamela Pearson & Charles Peach John & Susan Rae Jane Perry Shoemaker Katie & Raleigh Shoemaker Ken Spielfogel & Richard Withem Robert & Maxine Stein Gail & Scott Syfert Tillie S. Tice Jenny & Ken Tolson James H. Trexler & Kelly Zellars Vera Watson Grant Webb Linda & Craig Weisbruch Cricket Weston & David Molinaro Mrs. Eugenia N. White Bryan Wilhelm Noni Williams Deems Wilson Ms. Deborra Wood & Mr. Russell Propst

For more information on how to make a gift to the CSO Annual Fund, please contact Libby Currier, Director of Individual Givings, at 704.714.5137 or lcurrierl@charlottesymphony.org. (continued next page)

SUPPORTERS (continued) $1,000 – $1,499 Anonymous (5) Ashley & Steve Allen Kathleen & Richard Anderson Mary Lou & Jim Babb Mr. & Mrs. Lincoln A. Baxter Morgan & Katie Beggs Katherine W. Belk John & Katherine Beltz Shirley W. Benfield Donald H. & Barbara K. Bernstein Family Foundation Ms. Brett Blumenthal & Mr. David Wax Carole Bourret Khary Brown in Memory of Kyden Justice Brown Herbert Browne Mr. Charles Budd Jane & Larry Cain Maggie Callen Bill & Pauline Chinnis David M. Cody Mr. Mark Copeland & Mrs. Kathleen Goldammer-Copeland Ann F. Copeland Dr. & Mrs. Mark Couture Sarah & Larry Dagenhart Gwin Dalton Rufus Dalton Dan & Jeannette Davis Dr. Kandi & Gary Deitemeyer Dena Diorio Ralph & Troyann Dougherty Matt & Julie Drinkhahn Jay & Lisa Duggins Shobhan & Pritika Dutta Virginia Dulaney Bob & Judy Erb Martin Ericson, Jr. Julie & Tom Eiselt Lisa & Carlos Evans Trae & Kate Fletcher Ms. Toni Freeman Stephen C. & Jean S. Geller Jenn & Taylor Gherardi Kathy Gray Joyce & Ed Hamilton Anne J. Henderson Mical Hutson Paul & Linda Ibsen Martha D. Jones Lea & Stuart Johnson Mr. & Mrs. John E. Kibler Joan Kirschner Marilyn Kroll Jonathan Lamb Ms. Barbara Laughlin

page 23 Mark & Katherine Love Lucinda Nisbet Lucas Dr. & Mrs. Randolph Mahnesmith Mrs. Allison Malter Holly & Christopher Maurer Ms. Nydia McCrohan Shawn & Kelly McGrath Martha Monserrate Susan D. Montgomery Janet Preyer Nelson Peter & Janet Nixon Mr. & Mrs. E. O. Oakley Michael & Debbie O’Hara Karen L. Oldham Elaind Papadimitriou Arvind & Helen Patil Gwen Peterson & Tom Hodge Catherine Philpott Lucy Quintilliano & Leonard Fumi Dr. & Mrs. R. Pinkney Rankin, Jr. Morry Alter & Joan Rasmussen Brendan Reen Dave & Anne Regnery Rita & Thomas Robinson Sally & Russell Robinson Mrs. Gail Salmon Dr. Stephen P. Schultz & Donna Dutton Thomas & Natasha Scrivener Mr. & Mrs. William Seifert Molly & Conrad Sloan Scott Smith Murray & Hazel Somerville Kathryn Stewart Al & Alice Sudduth Ann & Wellford Tabor Richard R. Taylor Mr. & Mrs. Hans Teich Catherine Thompson B. Maureen Turner Vint & Libby Tilson Sarah S. Tull Drs. Iris Cheng & Daniel Uri Dr. & Mrs. Bill Chu & Jin Wang Ward Wellman & Laura Meyer Wellman Pam & Steve West Peter White David Wilcox Mr. Gary Wilhite Ms. Judith Wood Eugene Woods Ms. Barbara Yarbrough

$500 – $999 Anonymous (4) Michael & Lee Abbott Doug & Linda Abel Mark Abrams & Iris Prandi (continued next page)

SUPPORTERS (continued) $500 – $999 (continued) Mr. Lester Ackerman & Mr. Layton Campbell Larry Anderson Leigh & Rhonda Armistead JWD Atchison Bob & Cathy Becker Emerson Bell Ms. Melody Birmingham James Broadstone Aram & Scott Bryan Greg & Mary Lou Cagle Barbara F. Caine Ms. Lisa Callen Mary Case Amanda & Kevin Chheda Hobart B. Cheyne Dr. W. Gerald Cochran & Mr. Timothy D. Gudger Mr. Thomas E. Collins, Jr. Mrs. Jane M. Conlan Jack Cook Dr. Kilian Cooley Martin & Leslie Cooper Ellen M. Crowley Mr. Todd Croy Mrs. Judy Crozier Angela & Jesse Cureton Craig Selimotic Danforth Dr. Roy E. DeMeo, Jr. & Ms. Linda A. Evanko Doug & Diane Doak Cheryl Drake-Bowers Rebecca Elliott Gloria Evans Melisa & Frank Galasso Dr. John & Eileen Gardella Pete & Stacy Gherardi Donna Gibson Sarah Goad Mr. Walter H. Goodwin, Esq. Dan & Linda Gordon Ms. Cynthia Greenlee Tara & Richard Harris Mr. & Mrs. Lowrance Harry Mr. Charles Haughey Patrick & Johanne Hawk Mr. & Mrs. Michael D. Heafner Mr. Stefan Heinzelmann Robert Henderson Logan & Jennifer Henderson Barbara Holt Dr. & Mrs. Alexander Horowitz Pete & Phyllis Johnson Vickie & Eugene Johnson Michael & Priscilla Johnson Tim & Kathryn Johnson Joseph & Patty Kahle Emily Kalfayan Steven & Mary Kesselman James King Nancy H. Kiser Dr. & Mrs. Jack Kramer

page 24 Theodore & Dorothy Kramer Fran & Bart Landess Linda Lane Harry & Gloria Lerner Jerome & Barbara Levin Mr. Michael Lewandowski Mr. George Linfors Shira Lissek Kathryn Long Mark & Katherine Love Vi Lyles Dr. & Mrs. William W. MacDonald Leigh & Bruce March Linda Marshall Paula & Francis Martin Wendy & Ed Matthews Mr. & Mrs. Kiran H. Mehta Eric Miller Anne & Brad Mitchell Christopher Montgomery Sally & Tom Moore Fran & Gary Morrison Carla & Robert Murray Nancy Olah & Bill Pace Cookie & Jerry Parnell Janet & Rick Pfeiffer Wilma & John Pinter Mr. & Mrs. Rodney C. Pitts Jeanine & Naeem Qasim Sabine & Haywood Rankin Ana & Manuel Rey Megan & Jose Rosado Shonn Ross Nancy Rutledge & Jim Rutledge Christine & Robert Rydel Alyssa Sharpe Katy & Raleigh Shoemaker Michael Silverman Carol Smith Dr. & Mrs. Henry L. Smith II John-Palmer Smith Rebecca & Eric Smith Julia J. Souther Mary & Bill Stanton Mr. & Mrs. Larry Stern Catherine & William Stone Claudia & Wesley Sturges Brenda & George Sweet Ms. Sarah Teague Gretchen & Jean-Claude Thill Tim Timson Melanie & James Twyne Sandy & Greg Vlahos Minyan Wang Lyman Welton Harriet & Barnet Weinstock Mr. & Mrs. John A. Yakob Susan & Dan Yardley

SUPPORTERS (continued)

page 25

The Encore Society includes individuals who have made provisions for the CSO in their estate plans. We are honored to recognize their support: Lucille & Edwin Jones Paul and Paula McIntosh Nellie McCrory† M. Marie Mitchell† Cricket Weston & David Molinaro Joan & Richard Morgan Don C. Niehus Eva Nove Richard J. Osborne Gwen Peterson & Tom Hodge James Y. Preston† Mrs. Clayton (Dusty) Pritchett Ann & Fritz Rehkopf Elizabeth Waring Reinhard Nancy W. Rutledge Mike Rutledge Harriet Seabrook Mr. & Mrs. William Seifert Morris & Patricia Spearman Bob & Maxine Stein Dr. Ben C. Taylor III Mr. & Mrs. Hans Teich Cordelia G. Thompson Tim Timson Jenny & Ken Tolson Ms. Debora Wood & Mr. Russell Propst

Anonymous (3) Geraldine I. Anderson† Richard & Ruth Ault Baldwin Family Trust Barnhardt Thomas Trust Larry & Joyce† Bennett Donald H. & Barbara K. Bernstein Mark & Louise Bernstein† Rosemary Blanchard† Twig & Barbara Branch Saul Brenner Mike & Joan Brown† Mrs. Joan Bruns† Jan & Bob Busch Dr. Helen G. Cappleman, Ph.D.† Jim Cochran† Robin Cochran Tom Covington Charles & Peggy Dickerson Mr. Martin Ericson, Jr. David J.L. Fisk & Anne P. O’Byrne Peter & Ann† Guild William G. & Marguerite K. Huey Fund† Dr. Nish Jamgotch, Jr. Betty & Stanley Livingstone† † Deceased

Leave a lasting legacy of great music through your planned gift. For more information, please contact Shayne Doty at 704.714.5104.

Support your CSO. With your gift, the Charlotte Symphony uplifts, entertains, and educates the diverse communities of Charlotte-Mecklenburg and beyond through exceptional musical experiences.

Every gift makes a difference. Make your contribution today:

charlottesymphony.org/give-today

CSO The Elton John Experience - program 02-09-24

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Conductor Bio

Concert Program